Use IT to present scenarios for problem-based learning

Abstract

Effective Problem-Based Learning (PBL) begins with problems that can sustain students’ interest and motivate them to probe for deeper understanding of the concepts being introduced. How can IT be used in presenting PBL scenarios in such a way that students’ interests may be aroused from the very beginning of their PBL experience? This paper discusses how pre-service teachers are helped to develop skills necessary for using multimedia in problem-based learning. Trainee teachers taking the module Instructional Technology at National Institute of Education learn to use PowerPoint to produce “stimuli” that may be used to present PBL scenarios. Through the experience trainee teachers become familiar with PBL approach and at the same time learn to use make full use of the multimedia features of PowerPoint to enhance students’ learning experience.